I see Teo's point, totally.  But I also think that enought time has elapsed and scholarly interest has endured to the point where we can peek behind the curtain without compromising the show.

The first artist I remember as speaking out against box sets of this type was Merle Haggard.  It was the last straw in terms of him dealing with major labels.  His statement was to the effect of "I already said this wasn't worthy of release! What gives then to the right to put it out as something that represents my work?" After hearing "I'll be A Hero When I Strike", I concede his point as well.

It's the ultimate modern dilemma for any western consumer. You don't get choice without someone being compromised, be it, intellectually, socially, or economically.
Damn, I just morphed into Naomi Cambell!
cheers
bruno